2011 Ssangyong Chairman H unveiled in Seoul

The third-generation Ssangyong Chairman H has been unveiled at the 2011 Seoul Motor Show, with the model again featuring obvious Mercedes-Benz design cues.

The front incorporates the headlights of the first-generation Mercedes-Benz CLS and the more upright grille of the S-Class.

As for the back, it’s a little more unique. The best we can say is that it’s an evolution of the second-generation design, which featured similar square lines and slightly more cumbersome proportions.

The interior is probably the Chairman’s best angle. The large central screen gives the dashboard a modern appearance, while the wood grain trim makes for a positive contrast with the mostly dark surfaces. The cabin is finished with leather upholstery, and includes ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel.

The new Chairman H will be available with two six-cylinder engines: one with 147kW of power and 270Nm of torque, and the other with 163kW and 310Nm.

Ssangyong CEO Yoo-il Lee said the flagship Chairman was an important vehicle for the reborn company, which was rescued from the brink of closure by Indian manufacturer Mahindra and officially acquired in February.

“The newly released Chairman H premium sedan enhances the luxury and class of the Chairman series, which has grown to become Korea’s representative brand,” he said.

“Going forward, we are excited about developing into a global auto company and establishing ourselves as a world renowned brand through our strategic partnership with Mahindra.”

The Chairman H will be manufactured in Korea before going on sale in its domestic market in May.

The Chairman is no longer sold in Australia, with the previous model last sold here in 2008. Although never a volume seller, Ssangyong delivered more than 100 of them in its last four years on sale.